"But as we're in our 10th season, I think we need to look at the situation and look at the structure of the League.

"Given the fact that we are a country of just 2.8 million people, is it sustainable to have 18 clubs in the top division?

"I personally would like to see a top division with perhaps 10 or 12 clubs, and bring the remaining clubs together to form a Division Two.

"This may be opposed by feeder Leagues such as the Welsh League.

"But having spoken with other nations of our own size and population, and asked how many teams compete in their top division, the answer always seems to be around 10 or 12.

"I think a Welsh Premiership of 12 clubs would be more competitive and develop stronger clubs."

On the issue of summer football, Deakin said: "Rugby and Nationwide League football is also a big factor in reduced crowds at League of Wales matches.

"But, inevitably, the only way around this would be to re-structure the season and introduce summer football.

"I've been vilified in some quarters for this, but I'm very much for the idea of summer football.

"The season would start immediately at the end of the winter months and climax in the autumn. FIFA have supported this way of thinking for some time as they have tried to unify the seasons worldwide.

"The pluses are there to be seen, especially in Europe where our teams would begin competing in Europe during the height of their season. They'll be sharper and fitter and it could bring more success."

"After nine years in this job, this is really top of my agenda, and I hope it can be in place before the end of my tenure."

Asked about the issue of BBC Wales pumping #22.5m into Welsh rugby, but axeing the Gol programme they produced for S4C, Deakin said: "Following the newspaper stories, I personally adopted the strategy of meeting the BBC to see what the situation was for myself.

"Having been briefed by them I want to ask for a meeting with S4C.

"Basically we know we have to continue to make the right noises if we are to be heard on this matter."